You Can Do It! :)

There are times when it seems that there is nothing but negativity surrounding us. One minute you can feel on top of the world and the next you are hit with what seems like a million pieces of burning shrapnel directed right at your heart and all joy and hope seem to disappear. 

It has taken more than eleven and a half years of walking an average of about 20 miles a week with a group of dear friends to come up with a formula that can help fight the negative sting and bring joy and hope back despite the challenges all around us. Together we have solved the world's problems time and time again along with cheering each other on through various challenges, heartaches and good times. I wish everyone could have a group as fabulous as mine, but since that is unlikely, I thought it would be important to share some lessons we have learned with whoever is willing to read this blog. The principles that have guided our journey toward joy are spelled out in the motto:

"YOU CAN DO IT! :)" 

Y - yield your will and heart to God

O - opportunities to serve/brighten someone's day

U - understand and accept your own strengths and weaknesses

C - create a trustworthy support system

A - act instead of reacting - resist becoming a martyr or victim

N - nice - just be nice

D - don't forget you can do hard things

O - outside every day for at least a few minutes regardless of the weather

I - inspiration - listen to or read something that inspires you

T - think of/do things that make you smile or laugh

It has been said that we are here on earth to have joy. It took me a long time to believe that, but I know from experience that by following these steps your joy and hope will increase!! 

Let the journey begin :)